Signs of life for former TGI Fridays that shut down a year ago

Locally owned BBQ eatery signs lease to add 2nd location in Huber Heights

A locally owned barbecue restaurant is in the works at the former TGI Fridays in Huber Heights.

>>GUIDE: 16 incredible BBQ spots you HAVE to try

Al Shamburger, founder and owner of Al’s Smokehouse Carryout & Catering in Springfield, told this news outlet he has signed a lease to open a second location at 7777 Old Troy Pike in Huber Heights. The space previously housed TGI Fridays restaurant that shut down on Labor Day in 2017.

>> 4 abrupt restaurant closures that shocked Dayton last fall

“This is a big move for us,” Shamburger said. “I saw the location was available, and I had always wanted to open a restaurant in Huber Heights.”

 

>> New 'Double Deuce' tavern and pizzeria in Huber Heights is now open

Shamburger’s current location seats about 25 and has seven employees. The former TGI Fridays seats about 105, Shamburger said. He expects to hire about 40 employees and to be open seven days a week. The new restaurant have a license to sell alcohol, the restaurant owner said.

>> Why did TGI Fridays shut down its Huber Heights, Dayton Mall locations?

Shamburger previously operated a barbecue eatery near West Third and Broadway streets in Dayton. The Al’s Smokehouse at 1202 Sunset Ave. in Springfield opened in 2015. Shamburger said he should know more about his projected timeline for opening the Huber Heights location next week.

>> NEW TODAY: Dayton Rocks 20/20: Local musicians unite for charity

The Al’s Smokehouse menu features BBQ favorites such as pulled pork, ribs, beef brisket and bourbon chicken, smoked on-site.

Shamburger said he is exploring adding a third location in the Columbus area after the launch of the Huber Heights location.

About the Author